HUD AWARDS $1.3 MILLION TO NEW JERSEY HIV-AIDS HOUSING PROGRAM
Funding supports stable housing for individuals and families at extreme risk for homelessness

NEWARK - The New Jersey Department of Health Senior Services has been awarded a permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $1,297,066 to continue providing Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) to 50 post-incarcerated individuals with HIV/AIDS and their families throughout the State. A combination of supportive services will be provided by community-based service providers across New Jersey, including HIV/AIDS case management, mental health services, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling.

The grant announced today is part of a $30 million investment nationwide by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS will continue to receive permanent housing. During each of the next three years, this HUD funding will help provide permanent supportive housing for 1,232 households so they can manage their illnesses while receiving critically needed support services.

The funding announced today is offered through HUD's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program
(HOPWA) and will renew HUD's support of 29 local programs in 19 states.

"These programs are a critical source of support to local programs on the front lines of helping families stay
healthy," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "A stable home can make all the difference to the wellbeing of these families, many of whom have been homeless or at extreme risk of homelessness."

Housing assistance and related services funded by HOPWA are an essential part of the comprehensive system of
care for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS. A stable home environment is also vital for these households in allowing them to access consistent medical care and maintain their health. Furthermore, secure housing can be a platform for improved quality of life.

Ninety percent of HOPWA funds are distributed by formula to cities and states based on the number of AIDS cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HUD's formula grants are managed by 123 local and
state jurisdictions, which coordinate AIDS housing efforts with other HUD and community resources. Up eight
percent from last year, HUD is making available a record $335 million in HOPWA funds this year to help communities provide housing for this special needs population. Overall, these resources assist 58,367 households annually to promote stable housing and reduced risks of homelessness for those living with HIV and other challenges.

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HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; andtransform the way HUD does business. More information
about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.